Last season, the Niners beat Drew Brees and company on their way to and NFC Championship and a berth into Super Bowl XLVII. San Francisco also eliminated the Saints in the the playoffs during the previous season.

The Saints and 49ers used to be bitter rivals when the two franchises were in the same division (NFC South). Given that both teams are strong contenders in the NFC it appears the rivalry has been renewed.

Saints at Patriots

Another game to focus on will be the Saints vs. Patriots -- Tom Brady versus Drew Brees. It’s not very often future Hall of Fame signal callers go head-to-head.

Saints at Seattle

The Saints still have a bitter taste in their mouths from the 2011 playoff loss in Seattle. The Saints entered that game as 16-point favorites but got steam-rolled by Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch. Seattle is led offensively by second-year quarterback Russell Wilson and defensively the Seahawks are one of the best units in the NFC. Seattle is a difficult place to play and many experts are predicting that Pete Carroll's team will end up in Super Bowl XLVIII.

Saints at New York Jets

The Ryan Bowl. The Jets are coached by Rex Ryan. The Saints defensive coordinator is Rob Ryan. The twin brothers are larger-than-life figures who always provide great copy for journalists.

Saints at Bears

Sean Payton goes home. The Saints haven't fared well in Chicago, losing in the Windy City in 2006, 2007 and 2008. New Bears head coach Marc Trestman is a Sean Payton protege and Chicago's new offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer served as the Saints interim head coach during Sean Payton's suspension. The Bears also feature former Saints All-Pro Jermon Bushrod and former Tulane star Matt Forte.

Cowboys vs. Saints

America's team is always a big draw. Sean Payton's ties to "Big D" are also well documented. Both of these teams are hoping to be players in the NFC after missing the playoffs in 2012.

Saints 2013 schedule

1 of 18

Atlanta Falcons

Week 1 vs. Atlanta: The Saints and Falcons have alternated NFC South Championships over the past four seasons.